A sad bit of news sees longtime fans of British soaps look back. Anyone who remembers Coronation Street in the late ‘80s can’t forget a particular dashing character co-starring with Bet Lynch. Now, a sad update has come along. A long-time Corrie actor has passed away.
John Saint Ryan Dies at 72
John Saint Ryan, who played Coronation Street character Charlie Whelan between 1987 and 1993, passed away at 72. The death was confirmed through a message issued on his Facebook page by his wife Joyce and their family. John died following a heart attack on the evening of Thursday, 3rd April. Even though he was with his family at the hospital and the medical team did everything they could, unfortunately, he did not make it.
Joyce spoke of the family‘s devastation, stating they were “absolutely heartbroken.” She explained that John had made the decision to contribute to medical research and had donated his body, so there would be no funeral. Instead, the family will celebrate his life in the future.
She further commented that numerous people had been calling John a genuine “gentleman“ in the days leading up to his passing, and the family felt lucky to have known and loved him. Prior to his much–fondled spell on Coronation Street, John had popped up in two short appearances in episodes of Emmerdale in 1987.
Outside the Dales and Weatherfield, his acting career went way beyond the UK. He appeared in American TV series like MacGyver, The Twilight Zone, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Babylon 5, and many more.
Coronation Street: Beyond the Screen – A Life with Horses and a Lasting Love for the West
Although most were familiar with John through his screen appearances, he spent much of his life on a less passionate vocation—working with horses. He raised, trained, and sold horses from his ranch outside California for decades. He had retired into a life in harmony with nature and animals.
His stint on Coronation Street was defined by his character’s relationship with Bet Lynch (later Bet Gilroy). John‘s character, Charlie Whelan, was a popular favourite over his 60-episode tenure. Interestingly enough, Julie Goodyear herself has recently made headlines. Even her husband issued a public update on her health after she was diagnosed with dementia in 2023.
John Saint Ryan’s death signals the end of a life well lived—one that had crossed continents, careers, and communities. Whether remembered as Charlie Whelan or as California’s gentleman horseman, he leaves a legacy of warmth, kindness, and quiet strength. We will keep you posted regarding all soap updates on Soap Opera Daily. Stay tuned!
